Yukon’s Rural Nutrition Program Suspended After Funding Denial

The Yukon First Nation Education Directorate (YFNED) has suspended its rural nutrition program, which provided daily meals and snacks to children in 13 communities, after its funding application through Jordan’s Principle was denied. This decision, announced in early September 2023, could severely impact nearly 900 children and youth across the territory.

Melanie Bennett, YFNED’s executive director, expressed deep concern over the program’s suspension, stating that many Indigenous families, particularly in rural areas, struggle with food insecurity. “It’s very difficult,” Bennett said. “Not just in education but in life to be able to function if you’re hungry all the time.” The program, which had been operational for five years, aimed to alleviate the challenges faced by families in remote communities due to high living costs.

Jordan’s Principle was established to ensure First Nations children have equitable access to government-funded services, regardless of their location. Earlier in 2023, the federal government revised the eligibility requirements for funding under this initiative. Bennett believed that YFNED’s proposal met all necessary criteria, making the denial of funds particularly disheartening. She described the response from Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) as “disappointing,” claiming it was late and based on misinformation.

In a news release, YFNED stated that ISC had a “grossly misinformed” understanding of the rural nutrition program. The organization criticized ISC for claiming that past approvals were for “temporary bridge funding,” emphasizing that no such services existed in the communities. Bennett confirmed that YFNED is appealing the decision and has requested a review of its application. The government has 30 days to respond before the matter is escalated to the Federal Court of Appeal.

The suspension does not only affect the rural nutrition program; it also compels YFNED to retract other services, including a Christmas break hamper program that supported both urban and rural families. Bennett noted that without funding, YFNED could not justify providing aid to urban families while neglecting rural ones.

The emotional toll of the situation is evident. Bennett expressed her distress over the prospect of Yukon First Nation families losing support that had been available for half a decade. “We had something that was working very well,” she commented. “The very reason Jordan’s Principle was enacted was for exactly this.”

Students like Alexa Nagano, a Grade 12 student from Dawson City, highlighted the program’s importance. “We don’t have school lunches anymore. My dad and I now have to buy school snacks and lunches when we could be spending that money on payments on electric bills and heat,” she said. While her family manages, she acknowledged that many others relied on the rural nutrition program.

When asked for comments, ISC did not provide an interview opportunity but issued a written statement. The department clarified that Jordan’s Principle is not intended to replace government assistance programs but can offer temporary relief for families facing immediate challenges.

The impact of the program’s end has drawn criticism from community leaders. Chief Dylan Loblaw of the Ross River Dena Council described the decision as “Canada’s failure,” emphasizing the program’s role in providing healthy food options and employment for local food preparers. “I’m disappointed and greatly frustrated,” he said, noting the existing food insecurities in the region.

In support of YFNED’s appeal, Brendan Hanley, Yukon’s Member of Parliament, acknowledged the positive impacts the rural nutrition program has had on families. “It’s shown clear outcomes,” he noted, emphasizing the correlation between proper nutrition and improved learning outcomes for children.

As the appeal process unfolds, the future of the rural nutrition program remains uncertain, leaving many Yukoners anxious about the potential consequences for their communities.